ABOUT THE SHOW
Data Over Dogma is a podcast where biblical scholarship meets curiosity.
Hosted by Dan McClellan and Dan Beecher, the show takes a closer look at what the Bible actually says—and what it doesn’t.
Each episode explores the text itself, how it’s been interpreted, and how those interpretations show up in everyday life.
It’s not about debate or taking sides.
It’s about understanding what’s really there—and separating that from what gets repeated.
Dan McClellan
(Scholar | Author | Public Communicator)
Dan McClellan is a public scholar of the Bible and religion who specializes in grounding conversations about scripture in historical context and data rather than tradition, assumption, or dogma. He holds a PhD in Theology and Religion and has worked professionally in biblical studies and translation, including years of experience in institutional and academic settings.
Dan is the author of New York Times bestseller The Bible Says So: What We Get Right (and Wrong) About Scripture’s Most Controversial Issues, a book that challenges readers to reconsider what the biblical text actually says — and what later interpreters have layered onto it. His work focuses on separating evidence-based scholarship from inherited narratives, especially in conversations about politics, identity, and theology.
Through his widely followed online platforms and as co-host of Data Over Dogma, Dan translates complex academic research into accessible public dialogue. His approach is rooted in rigor, clarity, and intellectual honesty — with a commitment to evidence over ideology.
When he’s not analyzing ancient texts, Dan can usually be found responding to viral religious claims on the internet, patiently untangling them with citations, context, and a steady refusal to let misinformation go unchecked.
Areas of expertise: Biblical studies • Hebrew Bible • Translation theory • Religious rhetoric • Public scholarship • Historical-critical method
ABOUT THE HOSTS
Daniel Beecher
(Writer | Host | Cultural Commentator)
Daniel Beecher is a writer, performer, and longtime communicator who specializes in making big ideas feel human. With a background in storytelling, satire, and cultural commentary, Daniel brings warmth, curiosity, and sharp humor to complex conversations about religion, belief, and public life.
As co-host of Data Over Dogma, Dan serves as the listener’s advocate — asking clarifying questions, challenging assumptions, and helping bridge the gap between academic scholarship and everyday lived experience. His conversational style balances curiosity with candor, making space for nuance without losing accessibility.
Daniel’s professional background includes writing, media production, and public engagement work across multiple platforms. He is particularly interested in how belief systems shape culture, identity, and community — and how open dialogue can make difficult topics less polarizing.
On the podcast, Daniel’s role isn’t to be the scholar — it’s to make scholarship usable. He ensures conversations remain grounded, relevant, and understandable for listeners from a wide range of backgrounds.
When he’s not hosting, Daniel is likely writing, creating, or finding ways to turn complicated subjects into conversations people actually want to have.
Areas of focus: Cultural commentary • Communication • Media storytelling • Faith & society • Atheism • Humor in serious conversations
